Baigh submits resignation from J

Srinagar, Sep 3 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baigh today submitted his resignation from the state Cabinet to Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, a move that would set at rest the controversy surrounding him and end the ongoing political crisis which had rocked the ruling Congress-PDP coalition.

Well-placed sources said Mr Baigh met Mr Azad this evening and submitted his resignation from the post of Deputy Chief Minister and as Finance, Planning, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister.

''I am grateful to you for the trust and confidence you reposed in me during our association in the Council of Ministers. I have taken this decision for three reasons. First, since my party has withdrawn me as a nominee, it would be morally and politically wrong for me to wish to remain a Minister,'' read Mr Baigh's letter to the Chief Minister.

''Secondly, it is only right that the issue of my remaining a Minister should not become a matter of conflict between the coalition partners. It is my duty to ensure that. Finally, it has never been my goal to occupy the chair of power simply for the sake of power,'' the letter added.

''I humbly believe that I can render service to the public even without being a Minister,'' Mr Baigh said.

The sources said the Chief Minister would now forward his resignation to Jammu and Kashmir Governor Lt Gen (Retd) S K Sinha for formal acceptance.

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